New York State Senator Reverend Ruben Diaz (D-NY) announced his appreciation that Governor David Paterson has signed into law Senate Bill 6091, better known as the Nixmary Brown Bill. Under this new law, if a person abuses a child and causes their death in a cruel and wanton manner, they will be sentenced to life imprisonment without parole.

“I am relieved that this bill has been signed into law and moreover, that it takes effect immediately,” stated Senator Rev. Diaz. “The Governor signed this bill into law today, in less than one month after it passed the Senate in an almost unanimous vote – except for the vote of Senator Tom Duane who voted, “Nay.” This should assure New Yorkers that we are working hard to protect our children and deter child abuse and negligence.”

Nixzmary Brown was a seven year old child who, on January 11, 2006 died of blow to the head. She was being punished by her parents for eating a yogurt. Her mother and stepfather were convicted for her death and the severe and persistent abuse that they inflicted upon her during her brief life.